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"So you know how to make a democracy do whatever you want." A gloating expression.
"The technique is quite subtle but easy. You create a system where most people are dissatisfied, vaguely or deeply."
That's how she sees it. Look at her nod in time to your words.
Lucilla held herself to the rhythm of Great Honored Matre's nodding head.
"This builds up widespread feelings of vindictive anger. Then you supply targets for that anger as you need them."
"A diversionary tactic."
" I prefer to think of it as distraction. Don't give them time to question. Bury your mistakes in more laws. You traffic in illusion. Bullring tactics."
"Oh, yes! That's good!" She's almost gleeful. Give her more bullring.
"Wave the pretty cape. They'll charge it and be confused when there's no matador behind the thing. That dulls the electorate just as it dulls the bull. Fewer people use their vote intelligently next time."
"And that's why we do it!"
We do it! Does she listen to herself?
"Then you rail against the apathetic electorate. Make them feel guilty. Keep them dull. Feed them. Amuse them. Don't overdo it!"
"Oh, no! Never overdo it."
"Let them know hunger awaits them if they don't fall into line. Give them a look at the boredom imposed on boat rockers." Thank you, Mother Superior. It's an appropriate image.
"Don't you let the bull get an occasional matador?"
"Of course. Thump! Got that one! Then you wait for the laughter to subside."
You mean to say they can do this, but we can't so much as protest peacefully, let alone defend our selves?!?